Multimedia information and control system for automobiles

ABSTRACT

In a multimedia information and control system for use in an automobile, at least one interface is employed which enables a user to access information concerning the automobile and control vehicle functions in an efficient manner. The user may select one of a plurality of displayed options on a screen of such an interface. Through audio, video and/or text media, the user is provided with information concerning the selected option and the vehicle function corresponding thereto. Having been so informed, the user may activate the selected option to control the corresponding vehicle function.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates generally to information and controlsystems and, more particularly, to a system for use in an automobilewhich facilitates a user's retrieval and/or dissemination ofinformation, and control of vehicle functions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Information is vital to day-to-day activities. With no access toinformation, people cannot function efficiently in this society, andtheir lives and financial well-being are put in jeopardy. People want tobe well-informed, so much so that when they are travelling inautomobiles, they tune into local radio stations to listen to news,weather forecasts and traffic conditions. For that matter, someautomobiles are equipped with audiovisual systems including television(TV) receivers. One such system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,404,443issued to Hirata. The Hirata system provides audiovisual information ina number of modes including a TV mode, which may be selected by controlswitches disposed on the periphery of a display.

[0003] Automobile users like to be continually updated with informationaffecting their travel plans such as weather and traffic conditionsbecause of its fast changing nature. Automobile users who are travelingalso like to continually keep in touch with their homes and offices, andto confirm appointments and hotel reservations so that they can adjusttheir itineraries accordingly. To that end, cellular mobile telephoneswere introduced to enable automobile users to conduct business andcontact their families while they are traveling.

[0004] In addition, local map information is important to automobiletravelers moving from one locale to another. As such, navigation systemswere developed to help reach their destinations in an unfamiliar milieu.One such vehicle navigation system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,274,560 issued to LaRue. The disclosed system is based on artificialintelligence and provides a driver with directions via a voiceinterface. The system is built upon an optical disk player which can beused for entertainment as well. Digitized maps, compressed voice recordsand computer programs are stored on an optical disk compatible with thedisk player. After a destination point is identified, the disclosedsystem finds the best route from the digitized maps and guides thedriver therethrough via the voice interface, taking into account thelatest traffic conditions received by an FM receiver to avoidcongestion.

[0005] Recently, navigation systems based on military global positioningsystem (GPS) technology have emerged. One such navigation system iscommercially available as an option for the latest model of the ACURA3.5 RL automobile. This ACURA navigation system receives signals from aconstellation of satellites which is part of the GPS. In response tothese signals, the navigation system pinpoints the automobile's location(in latitude and longitude). It also detects the automobile's speed anddirection. With geographic information stored on a hard disk in anonboard computer, the navigation system is capable of verbally andvisually communicating to the user instructions for reaching thedestination.

[0006] In addition to the above techniques for communications withautomobile users, a technique for disseminating information regardingthe automobiles themselves is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,442,553issued to Parillo. The disclosed system is a vehicle diagnostic andsoftware upgrade system. In this system, sensors are provided in thevehicle to generate dynamic data relating to various mechanical controlsand the engine of the vehicle, including engine R.P.M., fuel/airmixture, emissions and pollution content information. A microprocessorin the vehicle has access to selectable program parameters affecting thefunctioning of the mechanical controls. The microprocessor collects andtransmits the dynamic data to a remote diagnostic station periodicallyor upon its request. In response, the remote station sends, to thevehicle, signals indicative of any changes in its software and/orprogram parameters. The microprocessor accordingly causes the changes tobe made in the vehicle based on the received signals.

[0007] Besides the communication capabilities described above, anautomobile has many accessories and user control elements such aslights, wipers, a clock, temperature control, cruise control, seatadjustment control, mirror adjustment control, and an anti-theft system.A technique for centralizing the command of the individual controlelements is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,555,502 issued to Opel. Thedisclosed system includes a centralized control panel on a steeringwheel which, together with a display, is utilized to control theelectronic components of the automobile. The display is positioned inthe area of the driver's sun visor. After the driver presses one of thebuttons on the control panel corresponding to a desired electroniccomponent, a menu is displayed so that the driver is able to selectitems from the menu to program the component. The selection isaccomplished by pressing specified buttons on the panel.

[0008] In addition, a technique for controlling vehicle accessories viavoice command is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,827,520 issued toZeinstra. In accordance with this technique, control functions of eachaccessory are formatted in a summary page for display on a screen, whichis scanned by infrared light to sense any touching thereon. By utteringany of the displayed functions on the summary page, preceded by either aspecified keyword or an actuation of a push-to-talk switch on a steeringwheel, a more detailed subpage of the selected function is displayed forfurther selection by voice. As an alternative to the voice command, theselection can also be accomplished by touching the displayed function onthe screen.

[0009] Voice command and touch screen techniques are frequentlymentioned in prior art references in controlling car accessories. Inparticular, U.S. Pat. No. 5,214,707 issued to Fujimoto et al. disclosesa system for voice-controlling equipment inside a vehicle, includingmicrophones capable of discriminating voice commands as to whether theyare generated at the driver side or at the assistant side of the vehiclein a noisy environment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] It is celebratory that technology advances at lightning speed.However, many people are left behind the technological frontier, and tosome extent develop “technophobia”. Some of them have even given up thistechnological race, which is confirmed by the blinking “12:00” displayon the clocks of many video cassette recorders (VCRs) being used.

[0011] Similarly, it is fantastic that automobiles nowadays include manyadvanced accessories such as audiovisual systems, anti-theft systems,anti-lock brake systems, climate control, and cruise control whichembrace the latest technologies. However, of all these accessories, manyautomobile users only know how to operate the headlights and windshieldwipers, and regard the rest as nuisance. That is, the users pay fornumerous accessories which they do not use, resulting in much consumerwaste. We have recognized that such non-use is principally attributed toan inefficient distribution of operating knowledge of the automobileand, in particular, its accessories.

[0012] Specifically, when automobile users presently want to learn aboutcertain aspects of an automobile, they need to consult an owner's manualwhich could have been lost or misplaced when they need it the most. Inaddition, the manual is unpopular because many users simply want toavoid reading any written material, and find it intimidating as itoftentimes is filled with incomprehensible technical jargon.

[0013] We have further recognized that even with the operatingknowledge, many users are overwhelmed and confused with the large numberof knobs, switches and buttons used to control the individual vehicleparts and accessories.

[0014] Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to design aninformation and control system for use inside an automobile with theuser in mind. The user is afforded a centralized control which may beused in lieu of the knobs, switches and buttons to operate the vehicleparts and accessories. In accordance with the invention, the centralizedcontrol is intimately tied to an information system such that the useris able to efficiently access information about the functions andoperations of such parts and accessories, and in a synergistic mannerapply that information to operate same, using the centralized control.

[0015] It is another object of the invention that the access to theinformation is intuitive and direct so that the user can obtain therelevant information in a few self-explanatory steps. To that end, theinvention embraces a multimedia approach where audio and video media areadded to the traditional text media to convey information. Theadditional media increases the dimensions of both the user'scomprehension of the information and the user's interaction with theautomobile. Moreover, the information access is driven by a multilevelmenu based on an intuitive model of taxonomy where information isorganized in a minimal number of levels of subject matter from generalto specific. The above integration of the multimedia approach with themultilevel menu approach presents an effective way of retrievinginformation in the automobile. Advantageously, with the invention, theuser would not be distracted or overburdened by irrelevant informationin the course of an information retrieval, which is conducive to a safedriving environment.

[0016] In the preferred embodiment, when the user wants to accessinformation about a given part or accessory of the automobile, the useris presented with options on a display screen. Each option is associatedwith a respective one of different parts or accessories of theautomobile. The user is able to select through the interface one of theoptions, associated with the given automobile part or accessory. Theoption when selected is highlighted, for example, in yellow. A voice isthen generated by the inventive system to explain the purpose or thecontent of the selected option before the user commits to it. Havingbeen so informed, the user may then activate the selected option inretrieving the information of interest. The retrieved information ispresented to the user in text, voice and/or graphics.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0017] Further objects, features and advantages of the invention willbecome apparent from the following detailed description taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawing showing an illustrativeembodiment of the invention, in which:

[0018]FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an automobile information and controlsystem in accordance with the invention;

[0019]FIG. 2 illustrates a control panel and a display interface for auser to interact with the system of FIG. 1;

[0020]FIG. 3 illustrates a flow chart depicting the steps of ananti-car-theft routine used in the system of FIG. 1;

[0021]FIG. 4 illustrates an arrangement of speakers in an automobile inaccordance with the invention;

[0022]FIGS. 5A and 5B jointly illustrate a flow chart depicting thesteps of a routine for presenting various screens to the user in thesystem interaction;

[0023]FIG. 6 illustrates a screen for eliciting a personalidentification number (PIN) from the system user;

[0024]FIG. 7 illustrates a SELECT A FUNCTION screen including featuresthereof in accordance with the invention;

[0025]FIG. 8 illustrates an introduction screen including featuresthereof in accordance with the invention;

[0026]FIG. 9 illustrates a MANUFACTURER screen including featuresthereof in accordance with the invention;

[0027]FIG. 10 illustrates a SAFETY REMINDERS screen including featuresthereof in accordance with the invention;

[0028]FIG. 11 illustrates a THEFT PROTECTION FEATURES screen includingfeatures thereof in accordance with the invention;

[0029]FIG. 12 illustrates a QUICK TIP SET-UP screen including featuresthereof in accordance with the invention;

[0030]FIG. 13 illustrates a MAIN MENU screen including features thereofin accordance with invention;

[0031]FIG. 14 illustrates a DRIVER'S VIEW screen including featuresthereof in accordance with the invention;

[0032]FIG. 15A illustrates an INSTRUMENT PANEL screen including featuresthereof in accordance with the invention;

[0033]FIG. 15B illustrates an association of an item with an optioncorresponding thereto on a second INSTRUMENT PANEL screen in accordancewith the invention;

[0034]FIG. 16 illustrates a TACHOMETER AND WARNING LIGHTS screenincluding features thereof in accordance with the invention;

[0035]FIG. 17 illustrates a segment of the screen of FIG. 16 providingthe user with information regarding a particular function of theautomobile;

[0036]FIG. 18 illustrates a CLIMATE CONTROL screen including featuresthereof in accordance with the invention;

[0037]FIG. 19 illustrates a SAVE screen for saving the user'spreferences in accordance with the invention;

[0038]FIG. 20 illustrates a DATA ENTRY screen in accordance with theinvention for looking up information regarding a specific item in theautomobile;

[0039]FIG. 21 illustrates an INDEX screen with listed items for whichinformation is available; and

[0040]FIG. 22 is a look-up table listing searchable items and thecorresponding instructions for a processor in the system of FIG. 1 toprovide information regarding such items.

[0041] Throughout this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, likeelements, components and sections in the figures are denoted by the samenumerals.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042]FIG. 1 illustrates information and control system 100 embodyingthe principles of the invention for use in an automobile. System 100 isreferred to as the “AUTO DIRECTOR” system. It is user-friendly anddesigned with the automobile user in mind. For example, with AUTODIRECTOR display interface 102 a to be described, information about theautomobile is readily available literally at the fingertips of the user.This information includes operational instructions, maintenanceprocedures, safety measures, and information about virtually everycapability of the automobile. In accordance with the invention, the useris able to efficiently access such information using multimedia meansinvolving audio, text and video media. Also with interface 102 a, ormultifunction display interface 102 b to be described, the user isafforded a centralized control whereby he/she can program or adjustdifferent vehicle parts and accessories using the information thusobtained.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 1, central to system 100 is processor 105connected to memory 115. Data bus 107 connects processor 105 to displayinterfaces 102, input interfaces 104, communications interfaces 106,output control interfaces 108, vehicle computer interfaces 110, vehiclecontrol interfaces 112, self-test interface 114, preferences interface116, and audio interface 118.

[0044] Display interfaces 102 include, inter alia, AUTO DIRECTOR displayinterface 102 a, which is illustrated in FIG. 2, together with controlpanel 205 in FIG. 1. By way of example, but not limitation, the hardwareof interface 102 a and control panel 205 are derived from a prior artnavigation system of the type of the ACURA navigation system. In fact,interface 102 a and control panel 205 are used in this illustrativeembodiment to realize not only AUTO DIRECTOR functions to be described,but also the well-known navigation function.

[0045] Interface 102 a includes a conventional liquid crystal displayscreen 209, and LCD driver (not shown) for processor 105 to control thedisplay on screen 209. Interface 102 a also incorporates well-knowntouch-screen circuitry (not shown) connected to touch screen interface104 a in FIG. 1. With this circuitry, the user can interact withprocessor 105 by, say, touching a displayed option on screen 209.Through interface 104 a, processor 105 receives from the touch screencircuitry a signal identifying the location on screen 209 where it hasbeen touched. If such a location matches the predetermined location ofone of the displayed options, processor 105 determines that that optionhas been selected. With such touch-screen and displayed option selectioncapabilities, through AUTO DIRECTOR interface 102 a, the user is able toobtain information on and control selectable functions of the automobilesuch as the instrument panel, navigation function, mobile phone,radio/CD player, locks, mirrors, windows, driver's seat adjustmentcontrol, climate control, windshield wipers, cruise control, lights,security function, steering, ride control, engine and transmission.

[0046] Control panel 205 comprises CANCEL switch 205 a, ENTER switch 205b, BRIGHTNESS switch 205 c, PUSH TO SELECT knob 205 d, MENU switch 205e, MAP/GUIDE switch 205 f, SETUP switch 205 g, ZOOM IN switch 205 h andZOOM OUT switch 205 i. BRIGHTNESS switch 205 c comprises a standardvariable resistor such that when it is pushed one way, operatingcircuitry 121 responsively causes the display intensity to increase, andthe other way to decrease. ZOOM IN switch 205 h when pressed enables theautomobile user to enlarge a particular visual area of interest onscreen 209, affording better details. On the other hand, ZOOM OUT switch205 i when pressed performs the inverse function to switch 205 h. As analternative to the touch-screen capability, switch 205 d similar to astandard joystick is provided for the user to move from one displayedoption to another on screen 209 in the same direction (e.g., up, down,left or right) as the switch is operated. A desired option may beselected by pressing ENTER switch 205 b. The functions of the otherswitches are described hereinbelow as they are called out in theoperation of system 100. In this illustrative embodiment, AUTO DIRECTORdisplay interface 102 a and control panel 205 are mounted close to thecenter of the dashboard of the automobile next to the steering wheel.

[0047] Referring back to FIG. 1, display interfaces 102 also includemultifunction display interface 102 b, center console display interface102 c, rear console display interface 102 d, and instrument paneldisplay interface 102 e.

[0048] Specifically, multifunction display interface 102 b is installedon the dashboard close to interface 102 a on the driver side. Likeinterface 102 a, interface 102 b provides the user with graphic displayand control of selected functions using well-known touch screentechnology. In fact, interface 102 b duplicates certain controlfunctions (e.g., navigation, phone, radio and climate control) ofinterface 102 a so that the user can use interface 102 b to control aselected function while interface 102 a is engaged in another ongoingfunction. For example, while the user is relying on AUTO DIRECTORinterface 102 a to provide navigation information to reach a givendestination, the user may want to adjust the climate control of theautomobile. It is inconvenient for the user to terminate the ongoingnavigation mode of interface 102 a, albeit temporarily, to access theclimate control function through the interface, adjust the climatecontrol and then resume the navigation mode. Thus, it is preferable toleave the navigation mode of interface 102 a alone and use interface 102b to administer the climate control.

[0049] Center console interface 102 c is installed close to interface102 a on the passenger side. Similar to interface 102 b, interface 102 cprovides the front seat passenger with graphic display and control offunctions which include: the front passenger seat adjustment, door lock,window, climate and TV controls. If enabled by the driver, control isalso available for the radio/CD player and phone.

[0050] Rear console display interface 102 d is installed on the back ofa front seat. Similar to interface 102 c, interface 102 d provides rearseat passengers with graphic display and control of certain functions ifenabled by driver or front seat passenger. These functions include: therear seat climate, windows, door locks, radio/CD player and TV controls.

[0051] Instrument panel display interface 102 e is installed on thedashboard in front of the driver seat. This interface provides thedriver with graphic display of the vehicle speed, engine RPM, outsideand inside temperatures, oil pressure, fuel level, time, odometerreading, trip odometer reading and warning light indicators. ThroughAUTO DIRECTOR interface 102 a, the system user may select the display ofthe information in either an analog or a digital form.

[0052] Input interfaces 104 comprise touch screen interface 104 a andcontrol panel 205 described before, and voice command interface 104 b.The latter is connected to a microphone (not shown) and comprisesstandard voice command circuitry (not shown) for processing voicecommands by the user through the microphone to control or modifyselected functions of system 100.

[0053] Communications interfaces 106 include phone interface 106 a,radio/CD interface 106 b, television (TV) interface 106 c, navigationinterface 106 d, and beacon interface 106 e. Processor 105 interactswith and controls standard phone equipment connected to phone interface106 a. Through processor 105, the user may operate the phone equipmentvia voice command, thereby realizing hands-free operation of theequipment. Alternatively, the user may operate the phone equipment usingthe touch screen capability provided by AUTO DIRECTOR display interface102 a or multifunction display interface 102 b. The user may alsooperate the phone equipment via remote switches.

[0054] Similarly, processor 105 interacts with and controls one or moreradio receivers and CD players in the automobile connected to radio/CDinterface 106 b. Through processor 105, the user may operate the radioreceivers via voice command, remote switch and/or touch screencapability.

[0055] Processor 105 further interacts with and controls one or more TVreceivers in the automobile connected to TV interface 106 c. Again, theuser may operate the TV receivers via voice command, remote switchesand/or touch screen capability. It should be noted at this point that itis apparent to a person skilled in the art that wherever the touchscreen capability may be used to select or control various options orfunctions provided by system 100, the voice command is equallyapplicable. As such, without further repetition, the explicit mention ofuse of the voice command as an alternative to that of the touch screencapability in each instance is conveniently omitted in the ensuingdiscussion.

[0056] As further described hereinbelow, navigation interface 106 d isconnected to a standard inertial guidance system (not shown) capable ofproviding gyros information, and deriving the vehicle location based onGPS information. With the map information stored in memory 115, theinertial guidance system is capable of providing the user withnavigational instructions via interface 102 a or 102 b. Besides thelocational information, local and national emergency information may bederived from the GPS information using additional standard decodingcircuitry in interface 106 d.

[0057] Beacon interface 106 e is used for connection to a standardbeacon device for detecting a predetermined beacon radio signal toprovide additional locational information.

[0058] Output control interfaces 108 include lock interface 108 a,mirror interface 108 b, window interface 108 c, steering columninterface 108 d, seat interface 108 e, climate control interface 108 f,wiper interface 108 g, cruise control interface 108 h, light interface108 i and clock interface 108 j.

[0059] Specifically, lock interface 108 a comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to lock or unlock the car doors, glovebox, console storage, trunk (or liftgate), fuel filler door, brakes andtransmission, and enable or disable the child-proof door locks, fuelpump and ignition.

[0060] Mirror interface 108 b comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to maneuver the positions of the outsidemirrors and inside rear view mirror, and to fold or unfold the outsidemirrors.

[0061] Window interface 108 c comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to incrementally or completely open orclose all windows, and to open, close or tilt any sunroof.

[0062] Steering column interface 108 d comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to move the steering column in or out andup or down.

[0063] Seat interface 108 e comprises output control logic controllableby processor 105 to (1) adjust the positions of the front seats forwardor aft, and up or down; (2) tilt the front or rear of the seat cushionup or down; (3) adjust the seat back lumbar, width and angle forward oraft; (4) increase or decrease the cushion size and stiffness; (5) raiseor lower the head restraint; and (6) raise or lower the seat beltheight.

[0064] Climate control interface 108 f comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to (1) turn the climate control system onor off; (2) select an air flow mode; (3) set fan speeds; (4) enable ordisable seat heaters; (5) select fresh or recirculated air (for driveronly); and (6) enable or disable front and rear defrosters, mirrors andsteering wheel heaters (for driver only).

[0065] Windshield wiper interface 108 g comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to (1) select a high, low, intermittent,single wipe or off mode; (2) set an intermittent delay; and (3) enableor disable front or rear washers. Interface 108 g also includes controllogic for controlling rain- and speed-sensitive wipers, and foractivating an automatic wash in a single wide mode when the windshieldis at a certain level of opacity.

[0066] Cruise control interface 108 h comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to (1) turn the cruise control on or off,(2) set the vehicle speed, and (3) cancel or resume the set speed.

[0067] Light interface 108 i comprises output control logic controllableby processor 105 to select an automatic on mode or off mode for parkinglights, headlights and fog lights; and to turn on or off map or courtesylights.

[0068] Clock interface 108 j comprises output control logic controllableby processor 105 to set an initial date and time on a conventional clock(not shown) connected to interface 108 j. System 100 relies on thecurrent date and time kept by the clock to provide a time reference forthe system functions.

[0069] Vehicle computer interfaces 110 include anti-lock brake computerinterface 110 a, engine computer interface 110 b and supplementalrestraint computer interface 110 c for processor 105 to communicate withthe computers controlling the anti-lock brakes, engine and supplementalrestraints (e.g., back-up airbag deployers and seat belt tensioners),respectively. Interfaces 110 also include back-up interface 110 dthrough which processor 105 receives and analyzes signals from theengine, anti-lock brake and supplemental restraint computers. Thesesignals would indicate to processor 105 any failures of the computers.In response to a computer failure, processor 105 causes a correspondingback-up computer connected to interface 110 d to provide a back-upfunction.

[0070] Vehicle control interfaces 112 include steering interface 112 a,ride interface 112 b, engine interface 112 c, transmission interface 112d, traction control interface 112 e, and security interface 112 f.

[0071] Specifically, steering interface 112 a comprises input monitoringand output control logic for processor 105 to lighten or tighten thesteering effort ratio in response to changing road conditions. Throughinterface 102 a, the user may opt for manual or automatic steeringeffort ratio control. Interface 112 a is capable of adapting and storingdata according to the driver's inputs. It also allows for steering offront and/or rear wheels for sporty or increased stability.

[0072] Ride interface 112 b comprises input monitoring and outputcontrol logic for processor 105 to lighten or stiffen the ride controlto front and/or rear of vehicle in response to changing road conditions.Through interface 102 a, the user may also opt for manual or automaticride control.

[0073] Engine interface 112 c comprises input monitoring and outputcontrol logic allowing for shutting off a specified number of cylinders,and varying valve and cam timing to increase performance or fueleconomy. This interface also allows for manual or automatic control ofthe engine components, and includes the capability of adapting andstoring data according to the driver's inputs.

[0074] Transmission interface 112 d comprises input monitoring andoutput control logic for selecting manual or automatic shifting of thetransmission. In an automatic shifting mode, interface 112 d is capableof adapting and storing data according to the driver's inputs. Interface112 d also allows for control of a variable differential ratio for fastacceleration and high economy cruise.

[0075] Traction control interface 112 e comprises input monitoring andoutput control logic providing information on whether power is deliveredto front and/or rear wheels of the vehicle and what proportion of thepower is delivered to each wheel. This interface also allows for manualor automatic control, and such functions as yaw control in cooperationwith the anti-lock brakes and an engine cylinder shutoff.

[0076] Security interface 112 f comprises control logic for setting asecurity level, and enabling or disabling a number of security relatedfunctions such as the fuel supply cut-off, motion detector, brakelocking, etc. Interface 112 f also allows entry of a new or alterationof an existing personal identification number (PIN) for personalizationof the vehicle functions, i.e., saving the vehicle functionalpreferences.

[0077] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, system 100incorporates an anti-car-theft technique involving security interface112 f. In accordance with this inventive technique, security interface112 f further comprises a sensor for detection of a predeterminedcondition to trigger an anti-theft routine. It will be appreciated thata person skilled in the art will come up with many different triggeringevents causing the sensor to invoke the routine. For example, a passiveway of triggering the anti-theft routine would be after the sensordetects that the engine is off and the user has opened, closed andlocked the driver's door.

[0078] In any event, as soon as processor 105 receives from the sensor asignal requesting an invocation of the anti-theft routine, processor 105retrieves from navigation interface 106 d GPS information identifyingthe parking location of the automobile, as indicated at step 251 in FIG.3. Processor 105 then stores at step 253 the parking location GPSinformation in memory 115. At step 255, processor 105 determines whetherthe security measures remain on. By way of example, but not limitation,such determination is based on information from lock interface 108 aindicating whether the driver's door is properly unlocked. If that dooris properly unlocked, processor 105 determines that the securitymeasures are called off, and the anti-theft routine comes to an end, asindicated at step 257.

[0079] Otherwise if processor 105 determines that the security measuresremain on, processor 105 at step 259 retrieves from navigation interface106 d GPS information identifying the current location of theautomobile. Processor 105 then compares at step 261 the current locationGPS information with the parking location GPS information previouslystored. If processor 105 at step 262 determines that the currentlocation matches the parking location based on the comparison, theanti-theft routine returns to step 255 after a predetermined period.Otherwise if processor 105 determines that the current location does notmatch the parking location, processor 105 assumes that the automobilehas been removed without authorization, i.e., stolen. At this point, ifa conventional alarm system is connected to security interface 112 f,processor 105 would cause an alarm to come on, gas to be cut off, etc.

[0080] In this example, a conventional transmitter (not shown) isconnected to security interface 112 f and transmits a predeterminedsequence of signals receivable by a law enforcement agency or a suitablealarm monitor company when it is activated. Continuing the example,processor 105 translates the GPS information identifying the currentvehicle location into the corresponding street address based on the mapinformation stored in memory 115, as indicated at step 263. Processor105 at step 265 looks up one or more phone numbers pre-stored in memory115 for reporting to the law enforcement agency (or the alarm monitorcompany) about the stolen status. Alternatively, a list of phone numbersassociated with law enforcement agencies (or branches of the alarmmonitor company) in many different geographic locations is pre-stored,along with the GPS information identifying the locations of therespective law enforcement agencies (or alarm monitor company branches).This being so, processor 105 locates the closest law enforcement agency(or alarm monitor company branch) and its associated phone number(s) bycomparing the current vehicle location GPS information with therespective agency (or branch) location GPS information.

[0081] In any event, processor 105 at step 267 initiates a call to a lawenforcement agency (or an alarm monitor company branch) through phoneinterface 106 a using the phone number just located. After the phoneconnection is established, processor 105 provides through the connectioninformation about the current address of the vehicle using conventionalvoice synthesizer circuitry (not shown) in audio interface 118, and thepre-recorded information about the vehicle itself such as its vehicleidentification number (VIN), model, year, color, license number, etc.,as indicated at step 269. Through the same phone connection, processor105 may also provide information about the vehicle's owner such ashis/her name and contact number so that the law enforcement agency (oralarm monitor company branch) can notify the owner of the incident.Processor 105 at step 271 activates the aforementioned transmitterconnected to security interface 112 f to generate the predeterminedsequence of signals in case the stolen vehicle is in transit. For thatmatter, processor 105 can also repeatedly check on the latest vehiclelocation and report any new address different from the one previouslyreported. Thus, by tracking the signals in the vicinity of the latestreported vehicle location, the law enforcement agency (or alarm monitorcompany) would recover the vehicle in an efficient manner.

[0082] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, afterprocessor 105 determines that the vehicle requires maintenance (e.g.,based on cumulative RPM measures described below), relying on the GPSinformation concerning the current location of the vehicle and the GPSinformation identifying the locations of a predetermined list of servicestations, processor 105 issues an alert to the user when it determinesthat the vehicle is currently within a predetermined distance from oneof the service stations so that the user can conveniently drive to thatnearby service station to have the vehicle serviced. To that end, theGPS information concerning the service station locations is stored inmemory 115. After determining that the vehicle requires maintenance,processor 105 from time to time compares the GPS information concerningthe current vehicle location with that concerning each service stationin the list, thereby identifying the closest service station currentlyto the vehicle and the distance between them. If such a distance iswithin the predetermined distance, e.g., 5 miles, processor 105 causes amessage to be displayed on AUTO DIRECTOR interface 102 a and/or to beannounced through audio interface 118 described below, informing theuser about the closest service station. In addition, if interface 102 ais put in a navigation mode, the GPS information concerning such aservice station is used by the aforementioned inertial guidance systemto direct the user there.

[0083] Referring back to FIG. 1, self-test interface 114 comprisesinput/output (I/O) control logic for performing an active self-test ofsystem 100 on power up or at the user's request. Specifically, interface114 polls every other interface in system 100 for a self-test result.Each interface, when polled, performs an active self-test and reportsthe test results to interface 114, where such test results are gatheredand caused to be displayed on interface 102 a.

[0084] Preferences interface 116 monitors changes made by the user inselected functions after the user logs on system 100, and prompts theuser to save such preferences. These preferences are stored in memory115 in association with the user's PIN. Functions affording the userchoices include auto locks, an easy entry, auto lamps, the seatposition, steering column position, mirror position, radio, steering,ride, transmission shift, engine performance, climate, and securitylevel.

[0085] Audio interface 118 comprises I/O control logic for receivingaudio signals from a radio/CD, TV, compact disk (CD) player, or phoneinterface, processing the received audio signals, providing properamplifications thereto, and routing the resulting sound to appropriatespeakers and headphones (not shown) connected to interface 118.

[0086] In this illustrative embodiment, AUTO DIRECTOR display interface102 a and multifunction display interface 102 b share the same speakers.As illustrated in FIG. 4, these speakers are central speaker 289, frontleft speaker 291 a, front right speaker 291 b, rear left speaker 293 aand rear right speaker 293 b. Central speaker 289 is installed ondashboard 295 directly opposite driver seat 287 in the automobile. Inaddition, speakers 291 a and 291 b are installed on the inside of frontleft door 297 a and the inside of front right door 297 b, respectively.Speakers 293 a and 293 b are respectively installed in left and rightcorners of rear shelf 299 in the automobile.

[0087] Interface 118 also provides center and rear console displayinterfaces 102 c and 102 d with separate audio channels, speakers andheadphone outputs. The front and rear speakers may be muted by the useras a preference.

[0088] Interface 118 also processes requests from other interfaces forpre-recorded digital sounds stored in a SOUNDSGOOD library in memory 115and routes the requested sounds to the appropriate interfaces. Inaddition, interface 118 comprises the conventional voice synthesizercircuitry for providing voice messages to the appropriate interfaces.Moreover, in accordance with another aspect of the invention, the voicemessages and any accompanying digital sounds are routed to selected onesof speakers 289, 291 a, 291 b, 293 a and 293 b to effectively deliverthe messages to the user. For instance, if the messages are extremelyimportant, e.g., messages requiring actions to be taken immediately, tocapture the full attention of the user, such messages may be routed tocentral speaker 289 and thereby directed toward the face of the user. Ifthe messages are less important, e.g., advisories requiring actions tobe taken sometime but not immediately, such messages may be routed tofront speakers 291 a and 291 b. If the messages are still lessimportant, e.g., driving tips and other messages for information only,such messages may be routed to rear speakers 293 a and 293 b, renderingthe effect of background information.

[0089]FIGS. 5A and 5B jointly illustrate routine 300 for accessing,through AUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 a, a main menu to obtainoperational instructions, maintenance procedures, safety measures, andother information about the automobile, collectively referred to as“Quick Tips”. Routine 300 is stored in memory 115 and initiated whenSETUP switch 205 g in FIG. 2 is pressed. Instructed by routine 300,processor 105 at step 301 elicits a PIN from the user by displaying ascreen of FIG. 6 through interface 102 a. As shown in FIG. 6, a videokey-pad comprising numeral keys “1” through “9”, and “*” and “#” keysare displayed on screen 209. In response, the user enters a sequence ofnumerals by touching the corresponding displayed keys, followed by the“#” key.

[0090] It should be pointed out that in accordance with another aspectof the invention, when a displayed key or option is touched on thescreen of AUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 a or multifunction displayinterface 102 b, a tone pre-selected by the user from the SOUNDSGOODlibrary is generated through audio interface 118, indicating that thekey or option has been touched on the screen. Advantageously, relying onthe audio tone confirmation, as opposed to a visual confirmation, theuser while driving can continually watch the road.

[0091] The user may alternatively enter the above numeral sequence usingcontrol panel 205 in a manner to be described. In any event, processor105 then verifies at step 303 the PIN entry by comparing it with theuser's preselected PIN. The latter is stored in memory 115, along withthe user's preferences. In a standard way, the user is given a fewchances to enter a correct PIN. verification of the PIN entry identifiesthe user as a legitimate user. Thus, if the PIN entry is not valid,routine 300 comes to an end, as indicated at step 304.

[0092] Otherwise if the PIN entry is valid, processor 105 at step 305causes interface 102 a to display on screen 209 a “SELECT A FUNCTION”screen, which is illustrated in FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 7, two options,namely, “NAVIGATION” and “QUICK TIPS”, are displayed on screen 209. Bydefault, NAVIGATION option 401 is highlighted yellow when the screen ofFIG. 7 appears.

[0093] It should be pointed out that in this illustrative embodiment, ayellow highlight on an option indicates that the option is selected butnot yet activated. Once a yellow highlighted option is activated, theoption is highlighted blue momentarily. System 100 then performsaccording to the activated option.

[0094] Thus, in this instance, the user may activate the yellowhighlighted NAVIGATION option by touching the option on screen 209 or bypressing ENTER switch 205 b.

[0095] However, if QUICK TIPS option 403 is desired, the user may touchthat option on screen 209, which would then be highlighted yellow. Asecond touch on the same option will change the highlight to blue,indicating the active status. As an alternative, the user may utilizeknob 205 d of FIG. 2 to select QUICK TIPS option 403 by first pushingthe knob to the right. In response, processor 105 causes the yellowhighlight to move from default NAVIGATION option 401 to QUICK TIPSoption 403. The user can then select the QUICK TIPS option by pressingENTER switch 205 b. Upon selection, the yellow highlighted option willagain turn blue.

[0096] Processor 105 at step 308 detects an activation of eitherNAVIGATION option 401 or QUICK TIPS option 403. If NAVIGATION option 401is activated, processor 105 at step 311 causes system 100 to enter intoa navigation mode. In this mode, processor 105 causes navigationalinstructions to be displayed on screen 209 in a conventional manner. Inproviding the navigation instructions, the standard inertial guidancesystem connected to navigation interface 106 d receives signals from aconstellation of GPS satellites maintained and controlled by the U.S.Department of Defense. In response to these signals, the inertialguidance system identifies the location (in longitude and latitude) ofthe automobile. The system also detects the vehicle speed, and thedirection in which the vehicle is headed. By accessing the mapinformation stored in memory 115, the system is capable of visually andverbally providing the user with directions to a given destinationthrough AUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 a and audio interface 118,respectively.

[0097] Otherwise if activation of QUICK TIPS option 403 is detected atstep 308, processor 105 causes interface 102 a to display anintroduction screen on screen 209, as indicated at step 314. Thisintroduction screen is illustrated in FIG. 8.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 8, system source identification, warning andinstructional information appear on the introduction screen, along withtwo options, “MAIN MENU” and “READ ME”. The default option in thisinstance is READ ME option 501 which is highlighted yellow. Processor105 detects at step 317 whether MAIN MENU option 503 or READ ME option501 is activated. If MAIN MENU option 503 is activated, routine 300proceeds to step 340 to be described. Otherwise if READ ME option 501 isactivated, routine 300 proceeds to step 320 where processor 105 causes aseries of three screens to be displayed. The first screen of the seriesis a “MANUFACTURER” screen, which is illustrated in FIG. 9.

[0099] As shown in FIG. 9, a description of the QUICK TIPS systemappears on the MANUFACTURER screen. If the text to be displayed exceedsone screen, which is the case here, scrolling options comprisingscroll-up option 605 and scroll-down option 607 are provided. Whenoption 605 is touched and activated on screen 209, additional textscrolls up one paragraph at a time. Option 607 performs an inversefunction to option 605. Again, as an alternative, the user may maneuverPUSH TO SELECT knob 205 d until the desired scroll option (or directionarrow) is highlighted yellow. The activation of the highlighted optionis achieved by pressing ENTER switch 205 b.

[0100] By default, displayed option 609 has the “AUTO VOICE” wordingthereon and is highlighted blue as the MANUFACTURER screen comes on.Accordingly, a pre-recorded voice is activated by processor 105 throughaudio interface 118 to read the entire text associated with this screenwithout interruption, including the text which is not presently shown onscreen 209 but otherwise shown upon scrolling. To alter the AUTO VOICEfunction, the user may touch option 609 on screen 209, or alternativelypress ENTER switch 205 b. By doing so, the “AUTO VOICE” wording onoption 609 changes to “MANUAL VOICE”, which is highlighted blue,indicating its active status.

[0101] In accordance with the MANUAL VOICE function, a pre-recordedvoice reads the displayed text only, and stops reading until additionaltext is scrolled onto the screen. To silence the voice, the user mayagain touch option 609 on screen 209, or alternatively press ENTERswitch 205 b. By doing so, the “MANUAL VOICE” wording on option 609changes to “VOICE OFF”, and the voice is deactivated, with the optionnow highlighted yellow. The cycle of the AUTO VOICE, MANUAL VOICE andVOICE OFF functions can be repeated by successively touching option 609or pressing switch 205 b.

[0102] Other displayed options on the screen of FIG. 9 include PREVIOUSoption 611 and NEXT option 613. As indicated at step 323, option 611when selected causes routine 300 to return to step 314, where theintroduction screen of FIG. 8 is again displayed. Otherwise, if option613 is selected, routine 300 proceeds to step 326 in FIG. 5B whereprocessor 105 causes a “SAFETY REMINDERS” screen to be displayed onscreen 209. FIG. 10 illustrates such a screen.

[0103] As shown in FIG. 10, like the MANUFACTURER screen, the SAFETYREMINDERS screen includes option 609 displayed with the default wording“AUTO VOICE” thereon, PREVIOUS option 611, NEXT option 613, scroll-upoption 605 and scroll-down option 607. This screen reminds the user ofthe safety features of the vehicle including, for example, air bags andseat belts. As indicated at step 329, option 611 when selected causesroutine 300 to return to step 320 of FIG. 5A. Otherwise if option 613 isselected, routine 300 proceeds to step 332 where processor 105 causes a“THEFT PROTECTION FEATURES” screen to be displayed on LCD screen 209.FIG. 11 illustrates such a screen.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 11, the THEFT PROTECTION FEATURES screensimilarly has thereon displayed options 605, 607, 609, 611 and 613. Thisscreen describes to the user a theft-deterrent system including theanti-theft routine of FIG. 3 equipped in the vehicle. As indicated atstep 335, option 611 when selected causes routine 300 to return to step326. Otherwise if option 613 is selected, routine 300 proceeds to step338 where processor 105 causes a “QUICK TIPS SET-UP” screen to bedisplayed on LCD screen 209. FIG. 12 illustrates such a screen.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 12, the QUICK TIPS SET-UP screen comprises twoarrays of displayed options, denoted 901 and 903, respectively. Array901 concerns the volume of the audio part of system 100. In thisillustrative embodiment, the user may select the options in array 901 torespectively turn the volume off, to a “SOFT” level, to a medium level,and to a “LOUD” level. Array 903 concerns the display of LCD 119 ofsystem 100. In this illustrative embodiment, the user may select theoptions in array 903 to respectively turn the display off, adjust it toa “DAY” setting, adjust it to a “NIGHT” setting, and have itautomatically adjusted. When the QUICK TIPS SETUP screen comes on, bydefault, the volume is set to a medium level (i.e., the “MED” option inarray 901 highlighted blue), and the display is set to be automaticallyadjusted (i.e., the “AUTO” option in array 903 highlighted blue).

[0106] Also shown in FIG. 12 is NEXT option 905. By selecting thisoption, routine 300 returns to step 340 of FIG. 5A where a “MAIN MENU”screen is displayed on LCD screen 209. After routine 300 is performed,the screen of FIG. 12 can be invoked at any time by pressing SETUPswitch 205 g to re-adjust the volume and the intensity of the LCD ofsystem 100.

[0107]FIG. 13 illustrates the MAIN MENU screen. This screen comprisesdisplayed options disposed in columns 1001, 1003, 1005, and 1007. Forexample, column 1001 includes DRIVER'S VIEW option 1001 a, STEERINGCOLUMN CONTROLS option 1001 b, LOCK option 1001 c, DRIVING TIPS option1001 d, and INDEX option 1001 e. It should also be noted that thisscreen can be invoked at any time by pressing MENU switch 205 e.

[0108] When the MAIN MENU screen comes on, by default, DRIVER'S VIEWoption 1001 a is highlighted yellow, indicating that it is selected.However, the user may touch any other displayed option on screen 209 forre-selection. A further touch on the yellow highlighted option changesits color to blue and activates same. Again, the user may alternativelymaneuver PUSH TO SELECT knob 205 d to re-select any other displayedoption, followed by a depression of ENTER switch 205 b to activate theselected option. Since LCD screen 209 is compact, the display area foreach option on the MAIN MENU screen is generally small. As a result,selection and activation of an option by touching the option on thescreen is susceptible to errors, especially when the vehicle is inmotion. Thus, in this situation it may be preferable to achieve the sameresult using knob 205 d and switch 205 b, instead.

[0109] In addition, because of the small display area allocated to eachoption on the MAIN MENU screen, the wording on the option is brief andthus tends to be cryptic. In accordance with a feature of the invention,after a predetermined time (e.g., a few seconds) has elapsed from theoption's being highlighted yellow, processor 105 causes a voice to begenerated on speakers 127 to explain the purpose of the option beforethe user activates it. For example, after a predetermined delay fromDRIVER'S VIEW option 1001 a's being highlighted yellow, a voice isactivated, stating the option name, followed by an explanation of thepurpose of the option such as “To provide location of dash mountedcomponents.” Thus, this inventive feature affords a preview of theoption before the user commits to it, thereby avoiding unnecessarybacktracking.

[0110] Continuing the example, after hearing the preview of option 1001a, the user decides to select that option. In response, processor 105causes a “DRIVER'S VIEW” screen to be displayed on screen 209. Such ascreen is illustrated in FIG. 14. When the DRIVER'S VIEW screen appears,VOICE option 1101 is highlighted blue, indicating that voiceannouncements are active. To disable the voice announcements, the usermay touch VOICE option 1101 on screen 209, or alternatively press ENTERswitch 205 b. VOICE option 1101 would be highlighted yellow whendisabled.

[0111] As also shown in FIG. 14, a view of the interior of theautomobile from the driver's perspective is provided. Underneath thatview, DASH-MOUNTED CONTROLS option 1103, INSTRUMENT PANEL option 1105,AUDIO SYSTEM option 1107, CLIMATE CONTROLS option 1109 and PREVIOUSoption 1111 are displayed. By default, DASH-MOUNTED CONTROLS option ishighlighted yellow. However, the user in this example decides to selectINSTRUMENT PANEL option 1105, instead. By touching option 1105 on screen209, the option is highlighted yellow. If VOICE option is not disabled,after a predetermined delay, an announcement such as “To provideinformation on gauges, meters and warning lights” comes on to previewthe purpose or content of option 1105. Options 1103, 1107, and 1109 aresimilarly programmed. In this instance, selecting PREVIOUS option 1111enables the user to return to the MAIN MENU screen of FIG. 13.

[0112] It should be noted at this point that if the user chooses toreturn to the MAIN MENU screen, DRIVER'S VIEW option 1001 a previouslyactivated on that screen is highlighted in another distinctive color,e.g., grey, indicating its previous activation status. Advantageously,when the user searches for particular information using the MAIN MENUscreen, and the information is not found through certain optionsactivated, these options are now highlighted grey. Knowing those optionshighlighted grey have been explored, which do not lead to the desiredinformation, the user would not re-activate them by mistake, therebyperforming the search effectively. For that matter, in this illustrativeembodiment, each option previously activated is highlighted in the abovedistinctive color, i.e., grey in this instance, indicating its previousactivation status.

[0113] Continuing the above example, assuming that the user activatesoption 1105 in FIG. 14 after hearing the aforementioned preview, inresponse processor 105 causes an “INSTRUMENT PANEL” screen to bedisplayed on screen 209. Such a screen is illustrated in FIG. 15A. Asshown in FIG. 15A, the previous screen format is generally maintained inthat it provides a view of the object (the instrument panel of theautomobile in this instance) pertinent to the option which has beenselected, along with displayed options for further selection thereunder.Based on the disclosure heretofore, the design and operation of thesescreens by now are apparent to a person skilled in the art, and becomeself-explanatory.

[0114] In accordance with another feature of the invention, individualelements on the instrument panel shown in FIG. 15A are labeled withnumerals “1”, “2”, “3”, “4” and “5” which correspond to option 1201 adesignated “1. TACHOMETER AND WARNING LIGHTS”, option 1201 b designated“2. TURN SIGNAL/HAZARD WARNING”, option 1201 c designated “3.SPEEDOMETER AND WARNING LIGHTS”, option 1201 e designated “4. ODOMETER &TRIP METERS/OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE”, and option 1201 f designated “5.FUEL/TEMP GAUGE AND WARNING LIGHTS”, respectively. As such, the functionof the displayed options is two-fold. First, the wording on eachdisplayed option informs the user of what the corresponding element(s)represents. Second, each displayed option is also for selection toobtain more information about the corresponding element(s). In addition,with the above voice preview feature, the user is further apprised ofthe purpose or content of the option before he/she commits to it. Forexample, TACHOMETER AND WARNING LIGHTS option 1201 a corresponds to avoice preview such as “To provide information on tachometer andmalfunction, maintenance required, low oil pressure and charging systemfailure indicators.”

[0115] It should be noted at this point that in an alternativeembodiment, the association of the displayed options with thecorresponding elements on the instrument panel shown in FIG. 15A is notrealized using numeral references, i.e., “1”, “2”, “3”, “4” and “5”described above. Rather, in accordance with yet another aspect of theinvention, as soon as one of the displayed options is selected (e.g., bytouching the displayed option) on screen 209 and thus highlighted yellowin this instance, the corresponding element on the instrument panel ishighlighted in the same color, thereby accomplishing the desiredassociation without using any numeral references. Conversely, knowing aparticular element on the instrument panel for which information issought, the user selects (e.g., by touching) that particular elementshown on the INSTRUMENT PANEL screen. Accordingly, the selected elementon the screen is highlighted yellow, and at the same time thecorresponding option is highlighted in the same color. The activation ofthe highlighted option may be achieved by, e.g., touching thehighlighted option or the corresponding highlighted element on screen209.

[0116]FIG. 15B illustrates the INSTRUMENT PANEL screen in thealternative embodiment. For example, as soon as SPEEDOMETER AND WARNINGLIGHTS option 1204 is selected and thus highlighted yellow (shownshaded), element 1206 depicting the corresponding speedometer andwarning lights is also highlighted yellow (also shown shaded), and viceversa. In fact, the association using the same highlight in accordancewith the invention applies throughout the screens, wherever appropriate,in the alternative embodiment, including the DRIVER'S VIEW screendescribed above.

[0117] Continuing the example in the present illustrative embodiment,assuming that the user in this instance activates option 1201 a in FIG.15A, in response processor 105 causes a “TACHOMETER AND WARNING LIGHTS”screen to be displayed on screen 209. Such a screen is illustrated inFIG. 16.

[0118]FIG. 16 shows VOICE option 1301 similar to option 1101 describedbefore, TIP option 1303, a tachometer of the automobile denoted 1305,warning lights collectively denoted 1307, and options 1309 a through1309 f in display segment 1311.

[0119] When TIP option 1303 appears on screen 209, it indicates thathelpful hints or reminders are available upon selection thereof. Inaccordance with another feature of the invention, the appearance of TIPoption 1303 is accompanied by the playing of a sound segment associatedtherewith. This sound segment may be pre-selected by the user from theSOUNDSGOOD library. After an adaptation period, the user would be ableto rely on the familiar sound segment, without looking at the screen, toalert him/her of the availability of the TIP option.

[0120] Similarly, the user may pre-select another sound segmentassociated with warnings. Such a sound segment should connote urgency oreven emergency as such warnings include, for example, engineoverheating, an extremely low fuel level caution, GPS emergencyinformation from navigation interface 106 d, etc. Under control ofprocessor 115, audio interface 118 preempts any on-going announcementand momentarily substitute therefor any such warning as soon as itoccurs, which is preceded by the associated sound segment. As mentionedbefore, such an emergency warning, along with the associated soundsegment, is communicated to the user through central speaker 289 in FIG.4, which is disposed directly across driver seat 295. As a result, theuser is able to much appreciate the emergency of the warning due to bothof the direction from which the warning is announced and the associatedsound segment preceding it.

[0121] In any event, if option 1303 is selected in this instance, avoice comes on and utters a tip regarding tachometer 1305 such as “Toprevent engine damage, do not drive with needle in red zone.” This tipis also momentarily displayed on segment 1311 in lieu of options 1309 athrough 1309 f.

[0122] Similar to the elements on the INSTRUMENT PANEL screen,tachometer 1305 and warning lights 1307 on this screen are individuallylabeled and correspond to options 1309 a, 1309 b, 1309 c, 1309 e and1309 f, respectively. Assuming in this example that MAINTENANCE REQUIREDoption 1309 c is activated, display segment 1311 would be replaced bynew display segment 1411 illustrated in FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 17,item 1401 indicates the subject selected, i.e., “MAINTENANCE REQUIRED”.Item 1403 explains what the MAINTENANCE REQUIRED warning light, when on,indicates. In this instance it states, “Maintenance required warninglight comes on to indicate it is time for scheduled maintenance.”PREVIOUS option 1405 enables the user to reactivate segment 1311 of FIG.16.

[0123] Assuming further that at this point the user wants to learn aboutand also to program the air conditioning of the automobile, the user mayaccess a “CLIMATE CONTROL” screen by successively pressing the PREVIOUSoption to backtrack to the DRIVER'S VIEW screen of FIG. 14, whereCLIMATE CONTROLS option 1109 is available. As a second alternative, theuser may press MENU switch 205 e to invoke the MAIN MENU screen of FIG.13, where a “CLIMATE CONTROLS” option within column 1003 is available. Athird alternative is provided in the event that the user cannotimmediately relate “air conditioning” to the CLIMATE CONTROLS option. Atthe MAIN MENU screen of FIG. 13, the user may select Index option 1001 eto be described. It suffices to know for now that this option allows theuser to access the “CLIMATE CONTROL” screen using the term “airconditioning”.

[0124]FIG. 18 illustrates the “CLIMATE CONTROL” screen. As shown in FIG.18, VOICE option 1501 whose function is similar to that of option 1101or 1301 described before is indicated in this instance using apre-selected icon, as opposed to the word “VOICE”. With the voiceenabled, a first touch on any displayed option on screen 209 causes itto be highlighted yellow, indicating its selected status. A second touchcauses it to be highlighted blue, indicating its active status. With thevoice disabled, only one touch on any displayed option activates it.

[0125] Likewise, PREVIOUS option 1503 whose function is similar to thatof option 1111 or 1309 d described before is indicated in this instanceusing a second pre-selected icon, as opposed to the word “PREVIOUS”.Advantageously, relying on icons instead of text describing the options,the user is able to select a desired option efficiently, especially whenhe/she is not proficient in a particular language (e.g., English in thisinstance) used in system 100. It will be appreciated that system 100,however, may provide different language versions of presentation, fromwhich a user may select a desired language version.

[0126] The MODE options in FIG. 18 include OFF option 1511, AUTO option1513, A/C option 1515, HEAT option 1517, and SMART CLIMATE option 1519.It should be noted that only one of the MODE options can be active at atime. In this example, assuming that the voice is enabled, when OFFoption 1151 is selected by a first touch, a voice explaining the optioncomes on, uttering “To disable climate control.” A second touch on thesame option would then shut the climate control off through climatecontrol interface 108 f.

[0127] When AUTO option 1153 is selected by a first touch, a voice comeson to explain the option, uttering “System automatically determinesair-flow distribution and volume for optimum efficiency.” A second touchon the same option enables the automatic control, followed by a voiceutterance, “Set desired temperature.” Temperature display 1535 thenflashes with the current temperature setting, prompting the user to seta desired temperature in a manner to be described.

[0128] If the user neglects to set a temperature after a predeterminedtime, in accordance with another aspect of the invention, a temperaturerange is automatically maintained by processor 105 in response to thedate and time information from clock interface 108 j, and the GPSinformation from navigation interface 106 d. Based on the date and timeinformation, processor 105 knows what the current season (e.g.,mid-winter versus mid-summer) and time of the day (e.g., night versenoon) are. Based on the GPS information, processor 105 knows the region(e.g, New England versus Southern California) where the vehicle is.Processor 105 looks up a table stored in memory 115 containingpredetermined temperature ranges corresponding to different combinationsof the temporal and geographic parameters. It then prescribes anappropriate temperature range according to the table. This temperaturerange is updated by processor 105 periodically to reflect changes in thetime of the day and the geographic location of the vehicle.

[0129] It should be noted that the actual realization of the temperaturerange as prescribed may depend on specific situations. For example,where the current temperature inside the vehicle is below the prescribedtemperature range and sunlight is detected inside same, to conserveenergy, processor 105 causes heaters in the vehicle to heat the vehiclecompartment at a low rate, taking into account the sunlight shiningthrough the windows of the vehicle, which helps heat the compartment dueto the well known “greenhouse” effect. To that end, conventional devicessensitive to solar energy may be used to detect the presence andintensity of the sunlight inside the vehicle. Depending on the detectedintensity, processor 105 accordingly adjusts the heating rates of theheaters to efficiently achieve the prescribed temperature range. Ingeneral, the higher the intensity, the lower are the heating rates.

[0130] Similarly, A/C option 1515 and HEAT option 1517 respectivelyenable the user to activate air conditioning and heaters at a desiredtemperature or a default temperature range.

[0131] SMART CLIMATE option 1519 is designed to allow the user toprogram the climate control for the next ride before he/she leaves thevehicle. When SMART CLIMATE option 1519 is selected by a first touch, avoice comes on to explain the option, uttering “To enable pre-heating orpre-cooling of vehicle.” A second touch on the option activates thefunction, followed by a voice utterance, “Set desired temperature. Setdesired time using fan speed arrows.” Temperature display 1535 thenflashes the current temperature setting, prompting the user to set adesired temperature. Similarly, fan speed display 1541 then flashes thecurrent date, followed by current time, prompting the user to set thedate and time that the user plans to reenter the vehicle. Throughclimate control interface 108 f, processor 105 determines whether thecurrent level of power from the car battery and any back-up powersources is sufficient. If it is insufficient, a message such as “Fail topre-condition vehicle temperature” is issued through audio interface 118to notify the user of the noncompliance. Otherwise, when it is close tothe re-entry time, processor 105 determines the start-up time to effectthe preconditioning, depending on the temperature difference between theinside and outside of the vehicle at that time. Processor 105 would thencause a combination of heaters and/or heat pumps (not shown) connectedto interface 108 f to pre-condition the vehicle temperature. In order toavoid substantially draining the power, in this illustrative embodiment,the requested temperature would be maintained up to an hour after theset re-entry time.

[0132] The Air options in FIG. 18 include FRESH option 1521 andRECIRCULATED option 1523. Only one of these two options can be active ata time. When FRESH option 1521 is selected by a first touch on theoption, a voice comes on to explain the selected option, uttering “Toselect outside air to circulate in vehicle.” A second touch on theoption activates the selection to ventilate the vehicle with outsideair. Similarly, RECIRCULATED option 1523 allows the user to select theinside air for recirculation in the vehicle.

[0133] The VENT options in FIG. 18 include FLOOR option 1525, FLOOR/DASHoption 1527, DASH option 1529, DEFROST option 1531 and FLOOR/DEFROSToption 1533. Only one of these five options can be active at a time.When FLOOR option 1525 is selected by a first touch on the option, avoice comes on explaining the option, uttering “Main air distribution tofloor.” A second touch on the option directs an air flow toward thevehicle floor.

[0134] Similarly, FLOOR/DASH option 1527 enables the user to bifurcatethe air flow between the floor and the dashboard. DASH option 1529enables the user to direct the air flow from the dashboard. DEFROSToption 1531 enables the user to direct the air flow toward thewindshield and select fresh air if not selected. FLOOR/DEFROST option1533 enables the user to bifurcate the air flow between the floor andwindshield.

[0135] Temperature display 1535 displays the temperature selected by theuser. Touching on up-arrow 1537 increases the selected temperature whiletouching on down-arrow 1539 decreases same. Continued touching on eitherup-arrow 1537 or down-arrow 1539 causes the temperature setting tochange rapidly.

[0136] Similarly, fan speed display 1541 displays the fan speed (high,medium or low) selected by the user. Touching on up-arrow 1543 increasesthe selected fan speed while touching down-arrow 1539 decreases same.

[0137] The HEATERS options in FIG. 18 include SEAT option 1547, MIRRORoption 1549, REAR WINDOW option 1551, STEERING WHEEL option 1553, andALL option 1554. One or more of these options can be active at the sametime. When SEAT option 1547 is selected by a first touch on the option,a voice comes on to explain the option, uttering “To enable seatheaters.” A second touch on the option activates the seat heatersconnected to climate control interface 108 f.

[0138] Similarly, MIRROR option 1549 enables the user to activateoutside mirror heaters. REAR WINDOW option 1551 enables the user toactivate a rear window defroster. STEERING WHEEL option 1553 enables theuser to activate a steering wheel heater. Finally, ALL option 1554enables the user to activate all of the heaters simultaneously.

[0139] In personalizing the vehicle, preference interface 116 monitorsany user adjustments to certain vehicle functions by comparing theircurrent settings with the corresponding stored preferences in memory115. Thus, for example, if the user changes any of the settings relatingto the climate control such as the mode, vent, air, temperature, fanspeed, etc. from its previous preferred setting, preference interface116 causes a SAVE screen to appear on screen 209. This SAVE screen isillustrated in FIG. 19. As shown in FIG. 19, the user is prompted tosave the change in the setting that he/she has just made. The user atthis point may activate SAVE option 1601 to change the previouspreferred setting. The SAVE screen thereafter disappears in favor of theprevious screen. Otherwise, he/she may activate CLOSE option 1603 toclose the SAVE screen, without storing the latest setting, which is thentreated as a temporary setting. In the latter case, for example, arestart of the automobile will obliterate such a temporary setting, andreinstate the stored preferred setting.

[0140] Climate control screens can similarly be invoked by the frontpassenger and rear passengers on display interfaces 102 c and 102 d,respectively. Such screens provide similar MODE options including OFF,AUTO, A/C and HEAT options; and VENT options including LOWER VENT, UPPERVENT and LOWER/UPPER vent options. They also provide for temperature andfan speed adjustments for the respective localized areas. However, nosave screen is provided.

[0141] Using INDEX option 1001 e of FIG. 13 to look up information onand/or to control various items in the automobile will now be described.After option 1001 e is activated, a DATA ENTRY screen illustrated inFIG. 20 is exhibited on screen 209. As shown in FIG. 20, a message“Enter Letter Or Item Name” appears to prompt the user for an entry ofthe name of the item of interest or its beginning letter. For thispurpose, entry options for letters A through Z arranged in a grid formatare provided in section 1701 for selection. In addition, DONE option1703, when activated, indicates to system 100 that the entry iscompleted. Subdisplay 1705 is used to echo the user's entry to ensureits correctness.

[0142] In this illustration, the user enters “AIR CONDITIONING” asexhibited on subdisplay 1705. In response, an INDEX screen shown in FIG.21 appears on display screen 209, with the search item name “AIRCONDITIONING” highlighted yellow. It should be noted that other itemnames such as “Anti-lock Brake System Indicator” are also shown, andthey are in alphabetical order following “AIR CONDITIONING”. This stemsfrom the design of system 100 whereby the user may conveniently enterthe beginning letter of the search item name only. In that case, a listof item names in alphabetical order with the first item name having thesame beginning letter highlighted yellow. For instance, if the user hadonly entered “A” for “AIR CONDITIONING”, a list of item names startingwith “A” in alphabetical order would appear on screen 209 (although inthis instance it would be the same list as shown in FIG. 21 as “AIRCONDITIONING” is the first item with a letter “A” in system 100). If theuser cannot locate the name of the item of interest in the list, he/shemay scroll the screen using scroll-up option 1801 or scroll-down option1803 to review additional item names after or before the listed itemnames. Alternatively, the user may select PREVIOUS option 1805 to returnto the screen of FIG. 20 to enter the complete item name.

[0143] In any event, after the user locates the item name on the INDEXscreen, the user may then touch the item name to access information onthat item. To that end, a look-up table is stored in memory 115. FIG. 22illustrates such a look-up table, wherein left column 1901 lists eachitem name in alphabetical order in the index, and right column 1903lists the corresponding instruction for processor 105 to carry out toaccess information on that item. For example, according to row 1905 ofthe table, the selection and activation of the item name “AIRCONDITIONING” causes processor 105 to connect the user to the CLIMATECONTROL screen of FIG. 18 previously described.

[0144] The foregoing merely illustrates the principles of the invention.It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be ableto devise numerous other systems which embody the principles of theinvention and are thus within its spirit and scope.

[0145] For example, based on the disclosure heretofore, it is apparentthat through system 100, the user can run diagnostics on selected partsof the automobile by voice command or touch-screen control.

[0146] In addition, it will be appreciated that a windows basedoperating system of the type of the MICROSOFT WINDOWS operating systemis installed on system 100. Specifically, a copy of the operating systemsoftware is stored in memory 115. Utilizing such an operating system,processor 105 can be programmed to control display interfaces 102 topresent information through one or more windows on screen 209. Thus, inthat case, the user may activate two or more options from the MAIN MENUscreen of FIG. 13, e.g., the INSTRUMENT PANEL option and CLIMATECONTROLS option, one after another. Accordingly, in a well-known manner,processor 105 causes the corresponding screens, e.g., the INSTRUMENTPANEL screen of FIG. 15A and the CLIMATE CONTROL screen of FIG. 18, tobe displayed in respective windows on screen 209. Advantageously, withthe multiple windows, the user may efficiently control and retrieveinformation from the multiple displayed screens.

[0147] Moreover, with the above operating system, processor 105 isresponsive to signals generated by an indicator device used to point atand click on a displayed option to select and activate same. Forexample, such an indicator device may be a mouse, joystick, stylus,trackball or touchpad which may be operable by hand or foot, and wiredor wireless.

[0148] Further, in the disclosed embodiment, through system 100, theuser is able to program the climate control for the next ride beforehe/she leaves the vehicle. It will be appreciated that the user will beable to achieve same remotely ahead of time via telecommunication means.For example, processor 105 may be programmed to accept climate controlcommands through phone interface 106 a. In that instance, the user cancall from anywhere to establish a phone connection with phone interface106 a using a predetermined phone number, through which the usercommunicates the commands to climate control interface 108 f to programthe climate control. Through the phone connection, the user may beprovided with climate control options described above in a synthesizedvoice. The user may activate one or more of such options by pressing apredetermined touch-tone key on the telephone keypad corresponding to a“yes” or “no” response. Similarly, the user may achieve the relevanttemperature and/or time settings by pressing the touch-tone keyscorresponding to the numerals indicative thereof. Of course,telecommunication means other than the telephone including a radiofrequency (RF) transmitter may also be used to communicate the climatecontrol commands from a remote area.

[0149] In addition, in the disclosed embodiment, the user may accessdifferent screens provided by AUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 a tolearn about and control certain vehicle functions. It will beappreciated that a person skilled in the art will develop ademonstration program wherein a series of such screens will beautomatically presented to a user in a predetermined sequence. Thepresentation may include commentaries, and highlights on selectedoptions displayed on each screen. Furthermore, the presentation may becoupled with the showing of actual vehicle functions. For example, indemonstrating the climate control screen of FIG. 18, while the functionof a highlighted VENT option (e.g., Floor, Floor/Dash, Dash, Defrost orFloor/Defrost) is explained, it is activated so that the user in theautomobile can feel an actual air flow from the corresponding direction.The above demonstration program may be invoked using a PIN provided bythe automobile manufacturer. The program may run continually while theautomobile is shown in a showroom, or may be invoked by the useroccasionally to obtain relevant information.

[0150] Further, in the disclosed embodiment, the MAINTENANCE REQUIREDwarning light comes on when it is time for scheduled maintenance. Inaccordance with another aspect of the invention, the maintenance isscheduled by system 100 according to the cumulative time of thetachometer reading above a predetermined RPM value. Such cumulative timereflects the extent of the engine wear, and if it exceeds apredetermined length of time without maintenance, the engine performancewould degrade substantially. In measuring the cumulative time inquestion, a conventional comparator (not shown) is employed in system100 to compare the instantaneous tachometer reading (provided by enginecontrol interface 112 c) with the predetermined RPM value. Each timewhen the tachometer reading exceeds the predetermined value, processor105 is interrupted to register the length of such an occurrence. Thelatter is added to a running sum to update the cumulative time inquestion. This cumulative time may be displayed on instrument paneldisplay interface 102 e, along with the tachometer reading and theMAINTENANCE REQUIRED warning indicator. A second conventional comparator(not shown) is employed in system 100 to compare the cumulative timewith the above predetermined time length. As soon as the cumulative timeexceeds the predetermined length, processor 105 is interrupted andcauses the MAINTENANCE REQUIRED warning light to come on, indicatingthat it is time for maintenance.

[0151] Still further, system 100 as described is highly adaptable inadjusting to new system requirements, and capable of “learning” newautomobile features to be introduced into the system. Such learning mayinvolve a modification or an upgrade in the system software stored inmemory 115.

[0152] Moreover, other features of system 100 may include capabilitiesof communications with a third party remote from the vehicle. Forexample, system 100 may be programmed to transmit signals representingdata on the current speed of the vehicle and its VIN receivable by aradar system, thus enabling the third party to monitor its speed.Furthermore, system 100 may be programmed by the third party to disableand subsequently enable the vehicle upon successful verification of aPIN pre-assigned to the third party. To that end, system 100 is capableof receiving remote transmission of the PIN, followed by the disable orenable code. The transmission may be encrypted for security reasons.Furthermore, more than one PIN may be used for different purposes. Forexample, a PIN may be assigned to a law enforcement agency to disablethe vehicle because of a suspension of a license, or to temporarilydisable the vehicle when the driver is intoxicated. Another PIN may beassigned to an environmental protection agency to disable the vehiclefor failing to meet the emission requirements. Yet another PIN may beassigned to the vehicle owner to disable the vehicle when parked,thereby reducing the risk of a car theft. The disabling of the vehicleinvolves cutting off its gas, putting on its anti-lock brakes, etc.

[0153] Further, system 100 is capable of receiving a low-frequency,low-power broadcast covering an area of a limited radius, referred to asa “Cell”. The broadcast may provide electronic GPS map and Yellow Pagetype information pertaining to the cell. This information, whenreceived, may be downloaded onto AUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 aor multifunction display interface 102 b. Such information includes alocal directory indicating locations of nearby gas stations, restaurantsand other facilities on the GPS map, with respect to the currentlocation of the automobile. The local directory may be formatted in theform of “web pages” featuring the local businesses, and includeadditional information such as business hours, telephone numbers, andinformation on products and services provided by such businesses.

[0154] The above broadcast may also provide local weather informationsponsored by a civic group or commercial entity. In the case of civicgroup sponsorship, the local civic events may be posted alongside theweather information, and in the case of commercial sponsorship,advertisements may be posted instead. Of course, as the automobile movesfrom cell to cell, the contents of the broadcast change accordingly.

[0155] In addition, while the radio in the automobile is tuned to aparticular radio station, system 100 is also capable of receiving anyelectronic files broadcast from that radio station, along with the radioprogram. These electronic files, which may be in the form of web pages,can be downloaded onto the system. The system user may then scroll thepages to learn such information as program listings and coming eventssponsored by the radio station.

[0156] Moreover, in the disclosed embodiment, system 100 isillustratively used in an automobile. It will be appreciated that aperson skilled in the art may also employ the inventive system inanother type of vehicle such as a boat, an airplane, etc.

[0157] Finally, although information and control system 100, asdisclosed, is embodied in the form of various discrete functionalblocks, the system could equally well be embodied in an arrangement inwhich the functions of any one or more of those blocks or indeed, all ofthe functions thereof, are realized, for example, by one or moreappropriately programmed processors or devices.

1. A system in a vehicle for accessing information about the vehiclecomprising: a display element for displaying a plurality of options anda plurality of items representing different aspects of the vehicle, eachoption corresponding to a respective one of the plurality of items; aninterface for selecting at least one of the plurality of options; amechanism for indicating an association of the selected option with theitem corresponding thereto; and an output for providing informationconcerning the aspect of the vehicle represented by the itemcorresponding to the selected option.
 2. The system of claim 1 whereinthe association is indicated by highlighting the selected option and theitem corresponding thereto in an identical color.
 3. The system of claim1 wherein the association is indicated by including an indicator in boththe selected option and the item corresponding thereto.
 4. The system ofclaim 3 wherein the indicator includes a numeral.
 5. The system of claim1 wherein said display element comprises a liquid crystal display (LCD).6. The system of claim 1 wherein said interface includes a touch-screencapability.
 7. The system of claim 1 wherein said interface includes acircuit for processing a voice input to effect a selection of the atleast one of the plurality of options.
 8. The system of claim 1 whereinthe interface is receptive to a signal transmitted by an indicatordevice, and the interface selects the at least one option in response tothe signal.
 9. The system of claim 8 wherein the indicator deviceincludes a mouse device.
 10. A system in a vehicle for accessinginformation about the vehicle comprising: a display element fordisplaying a plurality of options, each option corresponding to adifferent aspect of the vehicle; an interface for activating at leastone of the plurality of options; and an output for providing informationconcerning an aspect of the vehicle corresponding to the activatedoption, the activated option being distinguished from unactivatedoptions displayed on the display element.
 11. The system of claim 10wherein the activated option is highlighted in a different color thanthe unactivated options.
 12. A system for use in a vehicle comprising: amechanism for determining whether the vehicle needs a selected service;a processor for identifying a provider providing the selected servicebased on a current location of the vehicle relative to a location of theprovider when it is determined that the selected service is needed; andan interface for supplying information concerning at least the locationof the provider.
 13. The system of claim 12 further comprising anavigator for providing directions, wherein the information is suppliedto the navigator, and the navigator provides directions to reach thelocation of the provider based on the information.
 14. The system ofclaim 13 wherein the information is in accordance with a globalpositioning system (GPS) format.
 15. A system for providing messages ofvarying importance levels in a vehicle comprising: a plurality of audiooutputs for providing the messages, the audio outputs being disposed indifferent areas in the vehicle; and a processor for assigning aplurality of subsets of the audio outputs, each subset of the audiooutputs corresponding to a respective one of the importance levels ofthe messages, a message is provided by a subset of the audio outputscorresponding to an importance level of the message.
 16. The system ofclaim 15 wherein each of the plurality of audio outputs includes aspeaker.
 17. The system of claim 15 wherein at least one of theplurality of audio outputs is disposed opposite a seat in the vehiclesuch that the at least one audio output provides selected messagestoward a front part of a person occupying the seat.
 18. A method for usein a system for accessing information about a vehicle comprising thesteps of: displaying a plurality of options and a plurality of itemsrepresenting different aspects of the vehicle, each option correspondingto a respective one of the plurality of items; selecting at least one ofthe plurality of options; indicating an association of the selectedoption with the item corresponding thereto; and providing informationconcerning the aspect of the vehicle represented by the itemcorresponding to the selected option.
 19. The method of claim 18 whereinthe association is indicated by highlighting the selected option and theitem corresponding thereto in an identical color.
 20. The method ofclaim 18 wherein the association is indicated by including an indicatorin both the selected option and the item corresponding thereto.
 21. Themethod of claim 20 wherein the indicator includes a numeral.
 22. Themethod of claim 18 further comprising the step of receiving a signal,wherein the at least one option being selected in response to thesignal.
 23. A method for use in a system for accessing information abouta vehicle comprising the steps of: displaying a plurality of options,each option corresponding to a different aspect of the vehicle;activating at least one of the plurality of options; and providinginformation concerning an aspect of the vehicle corresponding to theactivated option, the activated option being distinguished fromunactivated options displayed on the display element.
 24. The method ofclaim 23 wherein the activated option is highlighted in a differentcolor than the unactivated options.
 25. A method for use in a system ina vehicle comprising the steps of: determining whether the vehicle needsa selected service; identifying a provider providing the selectedservice based on a current location of the vehicle relative to alocation of the provider when it is determined that the selected serviceis needed; and supplying information concerning at least the location ofthe provider.
 26. The method of claim 25 further comprising the step ofproviding directions to reach the location of the provider based on theinformation.
 27. The method of claim 25 wherein the information is inaccordance with a GPS format.
 28. A method for use in a system forproviding messages of varying importance levels in a vehicle, the systemincluding a plurality of audio outputs for providing the messages, theaudio outputs being disposed in different areas in the vehicle, themethod comprising the steps of: assigning a plurality of subsets of theaudio outputs, each subset of the audio outputs corresponding to arespective one of the importance levels of the messages; and providing amessage using a subset of the audio outputs corresponding to animportance level of the message.
 29. A system in a vehicle for accessingfirst information about a given aspect of said vehicle comprising: adisplay element for displaying a plurality of options, each option beingassociated with a respective one of a plurality of aspects of saidvehicle; an interface for selecting one of said options, the selectedoption being associated with said given aspect and in a first status;and an output for providing second information about said selectedoption, said selected option being activated to access said firstinformation, the activated option being in a second status.
 30. Thesystem of claim 29 wherein said vehicle comprises an automobile.
 31. Thesystem of claim 29 wherein said display element comprises an LCD. 32.The system of claim 29 wherein said interface includes a touch-screencapability.
 33. The system of claim 29 wherein said first status isindicated by a highlight on said selected option in a first color. 34.The system of claim 33 wherein said second status is indicated by ahighlight on the activated option in a second color.
 35. The system ofclaim 29 wherein said output includes audio element for conveying saidfirst information verbally.
 36. A method for use in a system in avehicle for accessing first information about a given aspect of saidvehicle comprising the steps of: displaying a plurality of options, eachoption being associated with a respective one of a plurality of aspectsof said vehicle; selecting one of said options, the selected optionbeing associated with said given aspect and in a first status; andproviding second information about said selected option, said selectedoption being activated to access said first information, the activatedoption being in a second status.
 37. The method of claim 36 wherein theparticular one of said options is selected using a touch-screentechnique.
 38. The method of claim 36 wherein said first status isindicated by a highlight on said selected option in a first color. 39.The method of claim 38 wherein said second status is indicated by ahighlight on the activated option in a second color.
 40. The method ofclaim 36 further comprising the step of conveying said first informationverbally.
 41. A system for use in a vehicle comprising: a controlelement for issuing a plurality of options, each option being associatedwith a respective one of a plurality of aspects of the vehicle; a firstinterface for selecting at least one of said options; an output forproviding information about the aspect of the vehicle associated withthe selected option; and a second interface for activating the selectedoption.
 42. The system of claim 41 wherein the first interface is thesame as the second interface.
 43. The system of claim 41 wherein atleast one of the first and second interfaces includes a display elementhaving a touch-screen capability.
 44. The system of claim 41 wherein theselected option is activated to control the aspect of the vehicleassociated with the selected option.
 45. The system of claim 41 whereinthe selected option is activated to provide second information about theaspect of the vehicle associated with the selected option.
 46. Thesystem of claim 41 wherein the information is verbally provided.
 47. Thesystem of claim 41 wherein the information is visually provided.
 48. Thesystem of claim 41 wherein the selected option being in a first status,and the activated option being in a second status.
 49. The system ofclaim 48 wherein at least one of the first and second statuses isindicated by a pre-selected audio signal.
 50. The system of claim 48wherein said first status is indicated by a first color, and said secondstatus is indicated by a second color.
 51. The system of claim 41wherein said vehicle is an automobile.
 52. The system of claim 41wherein the plurality of options are issued in response to an entry ofdata to the system.
 53. The system of claim 41 wherein the plurality ofaspects of the vehicle include different functions provided by thevehicle.
 54. The system of claim 53 wherein the different functionsrelate to climate control of the vehicle.
 55. The system of claim 41wherein said output is capable of providing special information.
 56. Thesystem of claim 55 wherein said special information when provided ispreceded by a selected audio signal.
 57. The system of claim 55 whereinthe special information concerns the current condition of the vehicle.58. The system of claim 41 further comprising a navigator processor forproviding navigational information.
 59. The system of claim 58 whereinthe navigational information is provided based on GPS data.
 60. A methodfor use in a system in a vehicle comprising the steps of: issuing aplurality of options, each option being associated with a respective oneof a plurality of aspects of the vehicle; selecting at least one of saidoptions; providing information about the aspect of the vehicleassociated with the selected option; and activating the selected option.61. The method of claim 60 wherein the selected option is activated tocontrol the aspect of the vehicle associated with the selected option.62. The method of claim 60 wherein the selected option is activated toprovide second information about the aspect of the vehicle associatedwith the selected option.
 63. The method of claim 60 wherein theinformation is verbally provided.
 64. The method of claim 60 wherein theinformation is visually provided.
 65. The method of claim 60 wherein theselected option being in a first status, and the activated option beingin a second status.
 66. The method of claim 65 wherein at least one ofthe first and second statuses is indicated by a pre-elected audiosignal.
 67. The method of claim 65 wherein said first status isindicated by a first color, and said second status is indicated by asecond color.
 68. The method of claim 60 wherein said vehicle is anautomobile.
 69. The method of claim 60 wherein the plurality of optionsare issued in response to an entry of data to the system.
 70. The methodof claim 60 wherein the plurality of aspects of the vehicle includedifferent functions provided by the vehicle.
 71. The method of claim 70wherein the different functions relate to climate control of thevehicle.
 72. The method of claim 60 further comprising the step ofproviding special information.
 73. The method of claim 72 wherein saidspecial information when provided is preceded by a selected audiosignal.
 74. The method of claim 72 wherein the special informationconcerns the current condition of the vehicle.
 75. The method of claim60 further comprising the step of providing navigational information.76. The method of claim 75 wherein the navigational information isprovided based on GPS data.
 77. A system for use in a vehiclecomprising: an output for issuing at least one option, the optionincluding data on an aspect of the vehicle; and an interface for showingsaid aspect of the vehicle, the option also including an indicatorassociating said option with the aspect of the vehicle shown.
 78. Thesystem of claim 77 wherein the indicator includes a numeral.
 79. Thesystem of claim 77 wherein said interface includes a display element.80. The system of claim 79 wherein said interface includes an LCD. 81.The system of claim 77 further comprising an input for activating theoption.
 82. The system of claim 81 wherein an activation of the optionis indicated by a selected audio signal.
 83. The system of claim 81wherein the option is activated to control the aspect of the vehicle.84. The system of claim 81 wherein the option is activated to provideinformation about the aspect of the vehicle.
 85. The system of claim 84wherein the information is verbally provided.
 86. The system of claim 84wherein the information is visually provided.
 87. The system of claim 77wherein the data is verbally provided.
 88. The system of claim 77wherein the data is visually provided.
 89. The system of claim 77wherein said vehicle is an automobile.
 90. The system of claim 77wherein the option is issued in response to an entry of information tothe system.
 91. The system of claim 77 wherein the aspect of the vehicleincludes a function provided by the vehicle.
 92. The system of claim 91wherein said function relates to climate control of the vehicle.
 93. Thesystem of claim 77 further comprising a provider for providing specialinformation.
 94. The system of claim 93 wherein said special informationwhen provided is preceded by a selected audio signal.
 95. The system ofclaim 93 wherein the special information concerns the current conditionof the vehicle.
 96. The system of claim 77 further comprising anavigator processor for providing navigational information.
 97. Thesystem of claim 96 wherein the navigational information is providedbased on GPS data.
 98. A method for use in a system in a vehiclecomprising the steps of: issuing at least one option, the optionincluding data on an aspect of the vehicle; and showing said aspect ofthe vehicle, the option also including an indicator associating saidoption with the aspect of the vehicle shown.
 99. The method of claim 98wherein said indicator includes a numeral.
 100. The method of claim 98further comprising the step of activating the option.
 101. The method ofclaim 98 wherein an activation of the option is indicated by a selectedaudio signal.
 102. The method of claim 98 wherein the option isactivated to control the aspect of the vehicle.
 103. The method of claim98 wherein the option is activated to provide information about theaspect of the vehicle.
 104. The method of claim 103 wherein theinformation is verbally provided.
 105. The method of claim 103 whereinthe information is visually provided.
 106. The method of claim 98wherein the data is verbally provided.
 107. The method of claim 98wherein the data is visually provided.
 108. The method of claim 98wherein said vehicle is an automobile.
 109. The method of claim 98wherein the option is issued in response to an entry of information tothe system.
 110. The method of claim 98 wherein the aspect of thevehicle includes a function provided by the vehicle.
 111. The method ofclaim 110 wherein said function relates to climate control of thevehicle.
 112. The method of claim 98 further comprising the step ofproviding special information.
 113. The method of claim 112 wherein saidspecial information when provided is preceded by a selected audiosignal.
 114. The method of claim 112 wherein the special informationconcerns the current condition of the vehicle.
 115. The method of claim98 further comprising the step of providing navigational information.116. The method of claim 115 wherein the navigational information isprovided based on GPS data.
 117. A method for storing a preferredsetting of at least one function in a vehicle comprising the steps of:operating said at least one function based on the preferred setting;determining whether the current setting in which said at least onefunction is operated has been changed from the preferred setting; andissuing an option to store the current setting when the current settingis determined to have been changed from the preferred setting, thestored current setting becoming the preferred setting.
 118. The methodof claim 117 wherein said option is a displayed option.
 119. A methodfor adjusting climate control in a vehicle comprising the steps of:determining a location of the vehicle; identifying a climate conditionas a function of at least the location; and adjusting the climatecontrol to meet the predetermined climate condition.
 120. The method ofclaim 119 wherein the climate condition is identified also as a functiontime.
 121. Apparatus for detecting a removal of an object comprising: alocator for providing information representing a location of saidobject; a processor in said object responsive to said information fordetermining whether the object has been moved from a predeterminedlocation; and an output for generating an alert when the processordetermines that the object has been moved.
 122. The apparatus of claim121 wherein said alert includes information representing a secondlocation to which the object has been moved.
 123. The apparatus of claim121 wherein said output includes a transmitter for emitting apredetermined signal to a selected entity, which is receptive to saidpredetermined signal.
 124. The apparatus of claim 123 wherein saidselected entity is selected based on a location of said selected entitywith respect to a second location to which the object has been moved.125. The apparatus of claim 121 wherein said object is a vehicle.
 126. Amethod for providing information concerning maintenance of an engine ina vehicle comprising the steps of: measuring a rate at which the engineruns; detecting whether the rate of the engine exceeds a predeterminedrate; recording a period during which the rate of the engine is detectedexceeding the predetermined rate; adding said period to a cumulativeperiod; and emitting an alert when said cumulative period exceeds apredetermined period.
 127. The method of claim 126 wherein the rate is afunction of an RPM value.
 128. The method of claim 127 wherein thevehicle is an automobile.